Paper Money Book

World Banknotes Updates

Macau 500, 1000 patacas BNU and BOC

Asia

  

The 500 Patacas (US$62.62; €53.84) P-94; B-95 banknote is a green issue measuring 158 x 79 mm, dated 18 DE MAIO DE 2020 and introduced in 2026. Issued by Banco Nacional Ultramarino, the note reflects Macau’s blend of heritage and modernity. The front features the denomination as a registration device and prominently displays a lotus flower, a symbol closely associated with Macau. The design also presents the old and new façades of the Banco Nacional Ultramarino headquarters building, emphasizing architectural continuity. A lotus flower printed in optically variable ink (OVI) adds both symbolism and advanced security.

The back design centers on a stylized tree and a map of Macau as it appeared in 1986, highlighting the territory’s historical landscape. The denomination appears again as a registration device, reinforcing visual alignment. Security features include a green-to-magenta windowed security thread with a demetalized lotus flower and “MOP 500,” as well as a watermark depicting a lotus flower and electrotype “500.” Although the printer remains unidentified, the note incorporates modern anti-counterfeiting elements consistent with contemporary banknote production, combining cultural identity with secure design.

The 1000 Patacas (US$125.25; €107.68) P-95; B-96 banknote is an orange issue measuring 163 x 81.5 mm, dated 18 DE MAIO DE 2020 and introduced in 2026. Issued by Banco Nacional Ultramarino, the note highlights Macau’s cultural identity and architectural heritage. The front displays the denomination as a registration device and features the lotus flower, an enduring emblem of Macau. The design also presents the old and new façades of the Banco Nacional Ultramarino headquarters building, symbolizing continuity between tradition and progress. A lotus flower printed in optically variable ink (OVI) enhances both symbolism and security.

The reverse shows a stylized tree and a detailed map of Macau as it appeared in 2022, emphasizing the territory’s modern landscape and development. The denomination reappears as a registration device, ensuring precise alignment when viewed against the light. Security elements include a green-to-magenta windowed security thread with a demetalized lotus flower and “MOP 1000,” along with a watermark of a lotus flower and electrotype “1000.” Although the printer is unknown, the advanced security features reflect contemporary banknote standards and reinforce protection against counterfeiting.

The 500 Patacas (US$62.62; €53.84) P-133; B-241 banknote is a green issue measuring 158 x 80 mm, dated 18 DE MAIO DE 2020 and introduced in 2026. Issued by Bank of China (Macau), it was printed by Hong Kong Note Printing Limited (HKNP). The front features the denomination as a registration device alongside façades of small traditional buildings and the prominent Bank of China Tower (Macau). A Southern lion motif symbolizes prosperity and cultural heritage, while the bank’s logo appears clearly integrated into the design. A dragon head rendered in optically variable ink (OVI) provides a dynamic color-shifting security element.

The reverse presents a modern skyline of large buildings, reflecting Macau’s rapid urban development. The historic Templo de A-Má (Temple of A-Ma) stands as the central architectural feature, emphasizing the region’s spiritual and historical roots. The bank logo is repeated, and the denomination appears again as a registration device to ensure accurate alignment. Security features include a magenta-to-green windowed security thread with a demetalized lotus flower and a watermark depicting a lotus flower with electrotype “500,” reinforcing both authenticity and visual elegance.

The 1000 Patacas (US$125.25; €107.68) P-134; B-242 banknote is an orange issue measuring 164 x 82 mm, dated 18 DE MAIO DE 2020 and introduced in 2026. Issued by Bank of China (Macau), it was printed by Hong Kong Note Printing Limited (HKNP). The front displays the denomination as a registration device together with façades of small traditional buildings and the prominent Bank of China Tower (Macau). A Southern lion motif symbolizes strength and prosperity, while the bank’s logo is clearly integrated into the composition. A dragon head printed in optically variable ink (OVI) provides a vivid color-shifting security feature that enhances both aesthetics and protection.

The reverse highlights Macau’s modern skyline of large buildings, reflecting the territory’s continued growth and development. The historic Tung Sin Tong Historical Archive Exhibition Hall serves as the central architectural element, emphasizing cultural preservation and community heritage. The bank logo appears again, and the denomination functions as a registration device to ensure precise alignment. Security elements include a magenta-to-green windowed security thread with a demetalized lotus flower and a watermark featuring a lotus flower with electrotype “1000,” reinforcing authenticity and advanced anti-counterfeiting standards.

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Syria new family

Asia

  

The 10 Pounds (US$0.02; €0.02) P-119; B-637 banknote is a red issue measuring 157 x 65 mm, dated ٢٠٢٥/2025 and introduced on 01.01.2026. Printed by Goznak (Federal State Unitary Enterprise “Goznak,” Russia), the note reflects contemporary Syrian currency design. The front features a delicate butterfly motif alongside the eagle with stars, the national emblem of the Syria. A concave hexadecagon serves as a registration device, complemented by roses and intricate Arabesque patterns that emphasize traditional artistic heritage.

The reverse displays three five-pointed stars arched above the headquarters building of the Central Bank of Syria in Damascus. Also depicted is the Dome of the Treasury at the Umayyad Mosque, one of the city’s most historic landmarks. The concave hexadecagon reappears as a registration device, ensuring precise alignment of front and back elements. Security features include a purple windowed security thread with a wavy line, while the watermark remains unspecified. The note bears the signature of Sabrine, confirming its official authorization for circulation.

The 25 Pounds (US$0.05; €0.04) P-120; B-638 banknote is a blue issue measuring 157 x 65 mm, dated ٢٠٢٥/2025 and introduced on 01.01.2026. Printed by Goznak (Federal State Unitary Enterprise “Goznak,” Russia), this note reflects modern Syrian currency design with intricate symbolic elements. The front features a stylized bird alongside the eagle with stars, the national emblem of the Syria. A concave hexadecagon functions as a registration device, while a mulberry branch with leaves and fruit, combined with traditional Arabesque patterns, emphasizes Syria’s cultural and natural heritage.

The reverse depicts three five-pointed stars arched above the headquarters building of the Central Bank of Syria in Damascus. The Dome of the Treasury at the Umayyad Mosque appears prominently, showcasing the city’s historical architecture. The concave hexadecagon is repeated as a registration device for alignment. Security features include a blue windowed security thread with a wavy line, while the watermark remains unspecified. The note bears the signature of Sabrine, confirming its official issuance and authentication, blending modern security with symbolic national imagery.

The 50 Pounds (US$0.10; €0.08) P-121; B-639 banknote is a brown issue measuring 157 x 65 mm, dated ٢٠٢٥/2025 and introduced on 01.01.2026. Printed by Goznak (Federal State Unitary Enterprise “Goznak,” Russia), the note exemplifies contemporary Syrian currency design with detailed symbolic and cultural elements. The front features a conch shell alongside the eagle with stars, the emblem of the Syria. A concave hexadecagon serves as a registration device, while an orange tree branch with leaves and fruit, paired with intricate Arabesque patterns, highlights Syria’s natural and artistic heritage.

The reverse shows three five-pointed stars arched above the headquarters building of the Central Bank of Syria in Damascus. The Dome of the Treasury at the Umayyad Mosque is prominently depicted, underscoring the city’s historic architecture. The concave hexadecagon repeats as a registration device for precise alignment. Security features include a gold windowed security thread with a wavy line, enhancing anti-counterfeiting protection, while the watermark remains unspecified. The note bears the signature of Sabrine, affirming its official issuance and authenticity, blending traditional motifs with modern security techniques in a distinctive and culturally rich design.

The 100 Pounds (US$0.20; €0.17) P-122; B-640 banknote is a purple issue measuring 157 x 65 mm, dated ٢٠٢٥/2025 and introduced on 01.01.2026. Printed by Goznak (Federal State Unitary Enterprise “Goznak,” Russia), the note combines modern security features with symbolic Syrian motifs. The front displays an antelope alongside the eagle with stars, the emblem of the Syria. A concave hexadecagon serves as a registration device, while cotton bolls and intricate Arabesque patterns emphasize the country’s agricultural heritage and artistic traditions.

The reverse presents three five-pointed stars arched above the headquarters of the Central Bank of Syria in Damascus. The Dome of the Treasury at the Umayyad Mosque is prominently featured, reflecting the city’s historic architecture. The concave hexadecagon repeats as a registration device to ensure proper alignment. Security elements include a winged windowed holographic security thread, providing advanced anti-counterfeiting protection. Although the watermark remains unspecified, the note bears the signature of Sabrine, confirming its official issuance. Overall, this design integrates national symbols, cultural heritage, and modern security techniques in a visually striking and authentic Syrian banknote.

The 200 Pounds (US$0.39; €0.34) P-123; B-641 banknote is a green issue measuring 157 x 65 mm, dated ٢٠٢٥/2025 and introduced on 01.01.2026. Printed by Goznak (Federal State Unitary Enterprise “Goznak,” Russia), this note combines modern security measures with rich Syrian symbolism. The front features the head of an Arabian horse, a revered symbol of strength and heritage, alongside the eagle with stars, the emblem of the Syria. A concave hexadecagon serves as a registration device, while an olive tree branch with leaves and fruit, paired with intricate Arabesque patterns, emphasizes the nation’s agricultural traditions and artistic culture.

The reverse presents three five-pointed stars arched above the headquarters of the Central Bank of Syria in Damascus. The Dome of the Treasury at the Umayyad Mosque is depicted prominently, highlighting the city’s historic and architectural significance. Security features include a winged windowed holographic security thread, while the watermark remains unspecified. The concave hexadecagon repeats as a registration device to ensure precise alignment. The note bears the signature of Sabrine, confirming its authenticity and official issuance. This design merges cultural heritage, national symbols, and modern security technology, creating a distinctive and meaningful banknote.

The 500 Pounds (US$0.98; €0.84) P-124; B-642 banknote is a brown issue measuring 157 x 65 mm, dated ٢٠٢٥/2025 and introduced on 01.01.2026. Printed by Goznak (Federal State Unitary Enterprise “Goznak,” Russia), this note combines traditional Syrian motifs with modern security features. The front displays a bird alongside the eagle with stars, the national emblem of the Syria. A concave hexadecagon functions as a registration device, while wheat spikes and intricate Arabesque patterns highlight the nation’s agricultural heritage and artistic traditions.

The reverse depicts three five-pointed stars arched above the headquarters of the Central Bank of Syria in Damascus. The Dome of the Treasury at the Umayyad Mosque is featured prominently, emphasizing the historical and architectural significance of the city. Security measures include a winged windowed holographic security thread, while the watermark remains unspecified. The concave hexadecagon is repeated as a registration device to ensure alignment of the front and back designs. Bearing the signature of Sabrine, the note is officially authenticated, integrating Syrian national symbols, cultural elements, and modern anti-counterfeiting technology into a visually distinctive and meaningful currency.

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Czech Republic new 100-koruna

Commemorative, Europe

  

The 100 Korun (US$4.29; €3.69) P-32; BNP103 banknote is a blue issue measuring 194 x 84 mm, dated 2026 and introduced on 21.01.2026 with prefix PN. Printed in a limited quantity of 20,000 pieces by Státní tiskárna cenin (STC) in Prague, the note showcases refined Czech banknote artistry. The front displays the denomination in SPARK Flow ink, shifting dynamically in color, alongside stylized piano keys and a portrait of Vilém Pospíšil. The building of the Czech National Bank in Prague appears prominently, accompanied by cojoined letters serving as a registration device. Additional motifs include a cornucopia, the national coat of arms, and a male angel holding a laurel wreath, symbolizing prosperity and achievement.

The reverse features an arrangement of fruits and a detailed view of the corner of the former Městská spořitelna Pražská building. The cojoined letters reappear as a registration device. A bare-breasted angel leaning on a coat of arms and holding a beehive represents diligence and abundance. Security elements include a solid security thread and a watermark portraying Vilém Pospíšil with an electrotype flower and “100.” The note bears the signature of Aleš.

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China 20-yuan ‘Year of the Horse’

Asia, Commemorative

   

The 20 Yuan (US$2.93; €2.52) P-922; B-4129 banknote is a pink, red, orange, and green polymer issue measuring 70 x 145 mm, introduced on 03.01.2026 with prefix J. Printed by China Banknote Printing, the note reflects modern Chinese polymer banknote design, combining vibrant colors and durable material suitable for extended circulation. As a polymer issue, it does not include a watermark or security thread, relying instead on design elements and optically variable printing for authenticity.

The obverse features the national emblem of the People’s Republic of China alongside a stylized horse, symbolizing vitality and strength. The denomination is displayed in SPARK Optical ink, providing a subtle color-shifting effect that enhances security and aesthetic appeal.

The reverse depicts three children playing musical instruments against a backdrop of residential houses, emphasizing cultural heritage, community, and everyday life in China. The layout balances national symbolism with relatable imagery, highlighting both tradition and modern living. The note does not carry a signature, relying on its official issuance, polymer durability, and distinctive SPARK Optical denomination as its primary markers of authenticity, making it a secure and visually striking addition to the modern Chinese currency series.

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Oman new 1-rial commemorative

Asia, Commemorative

  

The 1 Rial (US$2.60; €2.23) P-56; B-245 banknote is a brown, green, and purple polymer issue measuring 145 x 76 mm, introduced on 11.01.2026 and printed on Guardian polymer. Produced by Giesecke+Devrient, the note reflects modern Omani banknote design, combining durability with vivid color and intricate imagery. The front features the frankincense tree, a symbolic element of Oman’s natural heritage, also rendered in optically variable ink (OVI) for enhanced visual effect. Complementing this is the depiction of the arched windows of the Oman Botanic Garden and a portrait of Haitham bin Tariq, emphasizing the nation’s leadership and cultural pride.

The reverse highlights Omani infrastructure and heritage, featuring Duqm Port, the Duqm Refinery, and the Sayyid Tarik bin Taimour Cultural Complex. The arched windows of the Oman Botanic Garden are repeated, alongside the national coat of arms with crossed swords and a khanjar (dagger). While the note lacks a security thread and its shadow watermark is unspecified, it bears the signature of Sultan Qaboos bin Said

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Saint Helena new family

Africa

The 5 Pounds (US$6.37; €5.48) P-14; B-310 banknote is a blue polymer issue measuring 135 x 70 mm, introduced in January 2026 with prefix A. Printed by De La Rue, the note reflects modern substrate technology, offering enhanced durability and resistance to wear in circulation. As a polymer banknote, it does not contain a traditional watermark or security thread, relying instead on advanced transparent and printed security features integrated into the material.

The obverse features a portrait of Charles III, symbolizing Saint Helena’s status as a British Overseas Territory. The reverse celebrates the island’s unique natural heritage, depicting the Saint Helena ebony (Trochetiopsis ebenus) flower, a rare endemic species once thought extinct. Alongside it appears Jonathan the Tortoise, a Seychelles giant tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa), recognized as one of the world’s oldest living land animals and a cherished resident of Jamestown, Saint Helena. The combination of royal portraiture and distinctive local wildlife emphasizes both constitutional ties and environmental identity, making this polymer issue a notable addition to Saint Helena’s modern currency series.

The 10 Pounds (US$12.74; €10.96) P-15; B-311 banknote is a red polymer issue measuring 135 x 70 mm, introduced in January 2026 with prefix A. Printed by De La Rue, the note reflects contemporary banknote technology designed for durability and security. As a polymer substrate issue, it does not incorporate a traditional security thread or watermark, instead relying on integrated transparent windows and advanced printed elements to deter counterfeiting while extending circulation life.

The obverse presents a portrait of Charles III, underscoring Saint Helena’s constitutional connection as a British Overseas Territory. The reverse highlights the island’s distinctive natural heritage, featuring the Saint Helena ebony (Trochetiopsis ebenus) flower, an endemic species once believed extinct and now a conservation symbol. Accompanying it is Jonathan the Tortoise, a Seychelles giant tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa), regarded as one of the oldest living land animals and a celebrated resident of Jamestown, Saint Helena. The harmonious blend of royal imagery and local biodiversity gives the note both national significance and environmental character within Saint Helena’s modern polymer currency series.

The 20 Pounds (US$25.49; €21.91) P-16; B-312 banknote is a brown polymer issue measuring 135 x 70 mm, introduced in January 2026 with prefix A. Printed by De La Rue, the note reflects modern currency production standards, emphasizing durability and enhanced security. As a polymer banknote, it does not include a traditional watermark or embedded security thread. Instead, it relies on advanced substrate features such as transparent windows and specialized printed elements to protect against counterfeiting while ensuring a longer lifespan in circulation.

The obverse features a portrait of Charles III, highlighting Saint Helena’s constitutional ties as a British Overseas Territory. The reverse celebrates the island’s unique biodiversity with the Saint Helena ebony (Trochetiopsis ebenus) flower, a rare endemic plant once thought extinct and now a conservation emblem. Also depicted is Jonathan the Tortoise, a Seychelles giant tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa), famed as one of the oldest living land animals and a treasured inhabitant of Jamestown, Saint Helena. Together, these elements blend royal symbolism with local environmental heritage, defining the identity of Saint Helena’s contemporary polymer currency series.

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Russia new 1000-rubles banknote

Asia

    

The 1,000 Rubles (US$12.80; €11.00) P-278; B-837 banknote is a green issue measuring 157 x 69 mm, dated 2025 and introduced on 26.12.2025 with prefix PP. Printed by Goznak (Federal State Unitary Enterprise “Goznak,” Russia), the note combines modern security features with iconic Russian architecture and landscapes. The obverse displays the bank seal alongside Nikolskaya (Saint Nicholas Tower) and the bridge of the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin, an unknown building, and a map of the Oka and Volga rivers. Additional design elements include a stylized tower and circle printed in golden-crimson to golden-green OVI, another unidentified building, and a QR code, blending security and visual complexity.

The reverse features the Saratov road bridge, the hydrofoil vessel Meteor-120R, the Palace of Farmers, and a map of the Volga Federal District with flying birds, highlighting Russian engineering and regional identity. Security features include a 5.5-mm wide winged windowed holographic thread with demetalized “1000 CBRF” and a watermark depicting Nikolskaya with the bridge and electrotype “1000.” This banknote integrates historical landmarks, regional symbolism, and advanced anti-counterfeiting technology, making it both secure and representative of Russia’s cultural and infrastructural heritage.

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Honduras 200 lempiras

America, Commemorative

  

The 200 Lempiras (US$8.11; €6.97) P-114; B-358 banknote of Banco Central de Honduras is a striking blue issue measuring 156 x 67 mm. Dated 9 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2023 and introduced on 20.01.2026 with prefix H, it was printed by Crane Currency in Malta in a quantity of 20,000,000 pieces. The front features the denomination in SPARK and as a registration device, alongside colored squares representing the traditional Lenca loom. A portrait of Bertha Isabel Cáceres Flores appears prominently, accompanied by imagery of the Gualcarque River and surrounding trees, honoring her environmental activism and indigenous leadership.

The back displays Cáceres’ powerful quote, “¡Despertemos humanidad! / ¡Ya no hay tiempo!” (“Let us awaken humanity! There is no more time!”). An aerial view of La Esperanza, Intibucá—her birthplace—forms the central vignette, together with the denomination as a registration device and the official seal of the Banco Central de Honduras. Security features include a green-to-blue windowed security thread with demetalized BCH and a watermark portraying Bertha Cáceres with electrotype BCH. The note bears the signatures of Santos, Ávila, and Ochoa, reinforcing its official authorization.

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Comoros new 5000 and 10000 francs

Africa

  

The 5,000 Francs banknote (US$11.80; €10.14), catalogued as P-18d; B-311a, is a purple issue measuring 138 x 73 mm. Dated 2025 and introduced on 05.01.2026, it bears the signature of Younoussa Imani. Printed by the Banque de France (France) – BF, the note reflects refined production standards and advanced security integration. On the front, the Emblem of the Union of the Comoros appears in gold-to-purple optically variable ink (OVI), shifting color under changing light. A holographic stripe further strengthens its defenses against counterfeiting. The design also features Mount Karthala, the country’s renowned volcano, symbolizing natural strength and identity, alongside President Saïd Mohamed Cheikh, a key historical figure in the nation’s political development.

The reverse highlights the iconic baobab (Adansonia digitata) tree, a powerful emblem of endurance and life across the African landscape. Security elements include a solid thread with printed “BCC” and a holographic stripe embedded within the substrate. When held to the light, the watermark reveals a crescent moon with “BCC” and electrotype stars. Together, the artistic motifs and protective features combine cultural symbolism with modern banknote technology, ensuring both visual distinction and monetary security.

The 10,000 Francs banknote (US$23.59; €20.28), catalogued as P-19d; B-312a, is a vibrant yellow issue measuring 144 x 73 mm. Dated 2025 and introduced on 05.01.2026, it carries four authorized signatures. Printed by the Banque de France (France) – BF, the note demonstrates high production quality and enhanced security features. On the front, the Emblem of the Union of the Comoros appears in gold-to-purple optically variable ink (OVI), creating a dynamic color-shifting effect. A holographic stripe adds further protection. The design prominently features the Friday Mosque in Moroni, one of the nation’s most important religious landmarks, alongside Grand Moufti Al-Habib Saïd Omar Bin Soumeit, reflecting the country’s spiritual heritage and leadership.

The reverse celebrates the natural wealth of the islands. Green vanilla pods and ylang-ylang flowers (Cananga odorata) highlight key agricultural exports, while the green sea turtle symbolizes the rich marine biodiversity surrounding the archipelago. A poem by Mbaye Trambwe adds cultural depth and literary pride to the composition. Security elements include a solid thread with printed “BCC” and a holographic stripe integrated into the substrate. When held to light, the watermark reveals a crescent moon with “BCC” and electrotype stars, combining artistic beauty with advanced anti-counterfeiting technology.

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Morocco new 200 dirhams

Africa, Commemorative

  

The 100 Dirhams banknote (US$10.76; €9.25), catalogued as P-83; B-524, is a gray issue measuring 144 x 70 mm. Dated 1447–2025 and introduced on 22.12.2025, it bears the signatures Unknown/Jouahri. Printed by Dar As-Sikkah (Morocco) – DaS, the note combines national symbolism with modern design. The front displays three hexagons and the denomination in gold optically variable ink (OVI). An outline map of Africa appears alongside Moroccan arabesque motifs and a stylized football in purple OVI. The Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex is prominently featured, together with King Mohammed VI and the Moroccan coat of arms. The denomination also functions as a registration device, carefully aligned with elements on the reverse.

The back continues the football theme, with five-pointed stars encircling an outline map of Africa integrated into a football design. The interior of the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat is shown with players in silhouette chasing the ball, reinforcing the sporting celebration. Moroccan arabesque motifs frame the composition. Security features include a galaxy gold-to-green windowed security thread with a demetalized five-pointed star, “DH,” and “100.” The watermark portrays King Mohammed VI alongside an electrotype “100,” ensuring strong visual identity and advanced protection.

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